Andrew Fairlie Scholarship 2024

Meet the Finalists - Allan MacDonald

Breakfast Chef de Partie, The Balmoral

Where are you from originally, where did you grow up and where do you live now?

I grew up as a child in north Glasgow, Aberdeenshire and Brisbane Australia before moving to Deeside Aberdeen to finish school, then moving to Aberdeen city to finish my studies. I now currently live in Edinburgh as I feel like the food culture here is more exciting than Aberdeen!

What inspired you to apply for the scholarship?

 My head chef and my executive chef were pushing my to apply for this scholarship, which I have much appreciation for.

Have you always wanted to be a chef, what made you choose this career?

Growing up I have always had an interest and passion for food, whether it was eating it or making it, I have always been interested in it. I pursued this in secondary school, starting it when I could and choosing it as a lesson until I finished school, and then I chose to do 3 years of professional cookery at North East Scotland College. 

What do you love about working as a chef?

 There isn’t anything I dislike about what I do! I love the rush of a service, getting to know the people I work with, learning and developing not only as a chef but as a person. I’m very thankful that I do my hobby as a career.

What is your favourite ingredient to work with and why?

My favourite ingredient to work with is probably tomatoes. I used to grow them a lot when I had a garden to work on, so I like to use them fresh. I like to roast, grill or even eat them plain with a touch of salt, peeper and olive oil. 

What are your hopes for your future career as a chef?

Like many chefs or people who work in hospitality I wish to own my own restaurant/bistro or cafe, but what type of food I will serve I’m yet to figure out!